***
Something in the air shifted, and Gwen felt it—as she felt the urgency in Alexander's kiss. She saw it in the longing in his eyes, and even though she should stop him, she did not. Good gracious, they were in the courtroom! What if someone were to walk in? How would they possibly defend themselves?
Yet she did not pull away.
Alexander's hands were strong in his hold, and his lips—oh, his lips—were surprisingly gentle, considering the moment. He brushed his mouth back and forth against hers, and Gwen felt her heart explode frantically, while underneath her dress, an all-too-familiar pulse began. She clutched his shoulders, pressing closer, and the moment she did, his mouth became firm in their assault, demanding—commanding—that she open to him.
Desire surged, raw and unchecked.
